If the notary fails to affix the seal, the certificate is:

• A. valid
• B. invalid
• C. voidable
• D. pending approval

Answer: (B)

The essential element of a valid notarial act is the official seal accompanying the certificate. In Maryland, the seal authenticates who the notary is, confirms the commission, and ties the act to the proper jurisdiction and date. If the seal is not affixed, the document lacks this official proof, so the certificate isn’t properly executed. Because the seal is a required part of completing the notarization, the certificate cannot be considered valid. There isn’t a remedy by later approval or cure for a missing seal, so the outcome is that the certificate is invalid.